Virgin Hotels Collection, the hospitality group behind Virgin Hotels and Virgin Limited Edition, appointed Joe Margison as its new chief executive officer, according to a news release shared with Hotel Dive.
Margison has served as interim CEO of Virgin Hotels Collection since October, when James Bermingham stepped down from his post. Margison brings more than 25 years of experience across investment, finance, real estate and branded businesses to the role, previously serving as chief commercial officer for Virgin Hotels Collection parent company Virgin Group.
Virgin Hotels Collection Chair Peter Norris said Margison’s appointment “reflects the leadership he has shown since stepping into the role. He has brought clarity, confidence and renewed focus to the business while continuing to champion Virgin’s distinctive spirit and experience-led approach to hospitality.”
Margison takes over as CEO “at a significant moment for Virgin Hotels Collection” which “continues to build momentum across its global portfolio,” according to the release. The brand’s pipeline includes “landmark developments across key gateway cities and resort destinations,” such as the recently announced Virgin Hotels Atlanta at Centennial Yards, per the company.
Virgin Hotels Collection encompasses 16 properties across the Virgin Hotels and Virgin Limited Edition brands in the U.S., the Caribbean, Africa and Europe, according to the release. Virgin Hotels offers lifestyle properties with “smart design, local culture and creative food and beverage” programming, while Virgin Limited Edition is a collection of retreats, private islands and hotels in some of the world’s top destinations.
“Having led the Virgin Hotels Collection team for seven months, I have seen first-hand the strength of this business and the opportunity ahead,” Margison said in a statement. “I’m excited to lead the business through its next chapter of growth.”
Other hospitality companies that have recently appointed new CEOs include HEI Hotels & Resorts, Driftwood Hospitality Management and Under Canvas. Meanwhile, the CEOs of Choice Hotels International and Accor recently announced plans to depart.
